What Is Glazing?

Glaze is applied with paintbrushes to create a colorwash.

Glaze is added to walls, ceilings, and architectural surfaces to add color and depth. The material is often added to paint or tints to create a translucent paint coating. Glaze is commonly used by decorative artists or faux finish artisans.

Material

Glaze is initially a transparent and clear paint solution. Latex paint or tint is mixed with the glaze to create color in various ratios. Mica powder can be added for a metallic shimmer.

Drying Time

Glaze takes much longer than latex paint to dry--common drying times are several hours to a full day.

Effects

Glaze gives a translucent appearance, unlike paint which is opaque. The appearance of glaze gives the look of watercolors or an antiqued appearance. Glaze is used as a stain to add additional color and dimension to a surface.

Uses

Glaze is used to add color to bare walls. The mixture can add color to stucco or plaster walls and ceilings. Add glaze to cabinets to define architectural molding. Use glaze as a stain on furniture or light fixtures.

Application

Apply glaze using different tools for different effects. Sea sponges, paint brushes, mini fabric rollers, plastic bags, and trowels are all common ways to apply glaze.

Warning

Always practice mixing glaze and applying glaze to a sample board or surface before working directly on a wall or other project. Glaze is commonly not used over flat paint surfaces--the paint surface will instantly absorb the glaze, making manipulation impossible.

References

• The Art of Faux: The Complete Sourcebook of Decorative Painted Finishes; Pierre Finkelstein; 1997.

Resources

• Muralsplus